I just read a small book on the perseverance of the saints. In it the author contrasts the five points of Calvinism and the five points of Arminianism. While there is some value in discussing these matters it often leads to divisive debate and minimizes the true source and authority which is the Bible itself. This author stated that these are two systems of theology. This is precisely the problem. God did not give us systems of theology. Instead He gave us a revelation of Himself and in Him there are certain tensions that we have to struggle with and come to understand. Not everything is easy to understand. The apostle Paul stated: Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable his judgments, and his paths beyond tracing out! “Who has known the mind of the Lord? Or who has been his counselor? Who has ever given to God, that God should repay him?” For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be the glory forever! Amen. Romans 11:33-36

The apostle Peter instructs us to “Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” This involves our diligent effort and absolute zeal for the things of God. Peter went on to say, “His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and goodness. Through these He has given us His very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature and escape the corruption in the world caused by evil desires. For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love. For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. But if anyone does not have them, he is nearsighted and blind, and has forgotten that he has been cleansed from his past sins. Therefore, my brothers, be all the more eager to make your calling and election sure. For if you do these things, you will never fall, and you will receive a rich welcome into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” (2 Peter 1:3-11)

Here Peter gives us the process for being effective and productive. This is the perseverance of the saints. And in this we stand. God bless you in the pursuit of these things.

In the service of the Master,
Mark Dunn—Pastor
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